Montreal: Introduction Montreal Introduction Montreal (mŏnˌtrēôlˈ) [ key ], Fr. Montréal môNrāälˈ, city (1991 pop. 1,017,666), S Que., Canada, on Montreal island, surrounded by St. Lawrence River and Rivière des Prairies. Montreal is the second largest metropolitan area in Canada, after Toronto, and is a cultural, commercial, financial, and industrial center. It is one of the largest French-speaking cities in the world, though most of its inhabitants also speak English. Sections in this article: Montreal, PQ | Article about Montreal, PQ by The Free Dictionary Montreal, PQ | Article about Montreal, PQ by The Free Dictionary Also found in: Dictionary , Thesaurus , Wikipedia . Montreal (mŏn'trēôl`), Fr. Montréal (môNrāäl`), city (1991 pop. 1,017,666), S Que., Canada, on Montreal island, surrounded by St. Lawrence River and Rivière des Prairies.

Montreal is the second largest metropolitan area in Canada, after Toronto, and is a cultural, commercial, financial, and industrial center. It is one of the largest French-speaking cities in the world, though most of its inhabitants also speak English. Economy Montreal has an excellent harbor on the St. Lawrence Seaway, which connects the city to the great industrial centers of the Great Lakes. As Canada's most important port, it is a transshipment point for oil, grain, sugar, machinery, and manufactured goods. It is also an important railway hub, and has two international airports, Dorval and Mirabel. Its underground rail system, the Métro, was inaugurated in 1966. The city's industries include pharmaceuticals, high-technology, steel, electronic equipment, refined petroleum, transportation equipment, textiles, clothing, food and beverages, printed materials, and tobacco. It is also a financial service center, which greatly expanded in the 1980s. Once Canada's preeminent city, Montreal has been eclipsed by Toronto as the country's economic center. Tensions over Quebec's insistence on enforcing its francophone culture have caused an outmigration of English-speaking people to Ontario and to the growing western provinces.

Despite these changes, Montreal remains one of North America's great cosmopolitan cities. Landmarks and Institutions The city lies at the foot of Mt. Royal, which is the source of its name and around which extends a large wooded park in the center of the city. To the south fronting the river is the area of Old Montreal, which draws visitors to the boardwalk on the site of the Old Port and to Place Jacques-Cartier, St. Sulpice Seminary (1685), the Château de Ramezay (1705), and the Gothic Church of Notre Dame (c.1820). Beginning in the 1960s, following a period of neglect, Old Montreal underwent extensive renovation and gained commercial, government, and private tenants. Located in the downtown area is the Place Ville Marie, an innovative commercial complex built in 1962; around it stretches the Underground City, which provides protected access, both above and below street level, to shopping, restaurants, offices, and other commercial enterprises and to transportation links. Montreal has a museum of fine arts, a museum of contemporary arts, an environmental museum and insectarium, and large botanical gardens.

An amusement center and casino occupy the site of Expo '67. The city is the seat of McGill Univ., the Univ. of Montreal, the Univ. of Quebec at Montreal, and Concordia Univ. The National Hockey League's hallowed Canadiens and the Canadian Football League's Alouettes play in the city. History A stockaded Native American village, Hochelaga, was found on the site (1535) by Cartier Cartier, Jacques , 1491–1557, French navigator, first explorer of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and discoverer of the St. Lawrence River. He made three voyages to the region, the first two (1534, 1535–36) directly at the command of King Francis I and the third ..... Click the link for more information. , and the island was visited in 1603 by Champlain Champlain, Samuel de , 1567–1635, French explorer, the chief founder of New France.

After serving in France under Henry of Navarre (King Henry IV) in the religious wars, Champlain was given command of a Spanish fleet sailing to the West Indies, Mexico, and the ..... Click the link for more information. , but it was not settled by the French until 1642, when a band of priests, nuns, and settlers under Paul de Chomedey, sieur de Maisonneuve Maisonneuve, Paul de Chomedey, sieur de , 1612–76, founder and first governor of Montreal, b. France. A soldier, he fought in European wars before being sent by the Société de Notre Dame de Montréal to take possession of their grant in the new world. ..... Click the link for more information. , founded the Ville Marie de Montréal. The settlement grew to become an important center of the fur trade and the starting point for the western expeditions of Jolliet, Marquette, La Salle, Vérendrye, and Duluth. It was fortified in 1725 and remained in French possession until 1760, when Vaudreuil de Cavagnal surrendered it to British forces under Amherst.

Americans under Richard Montgomery occupied it briefly (1775–76) during the American Revolution. The city's growth was aided by the opening in 1825 of the Lachine Canal, making possible water communications with the Great Lakes. From 1844 to 1849, Montreal was the capital of United Canada. The Canadian Pacific Railway established its headquarters here in the 1880s. Montreal held the much-praised international exposition of 1967, known as Expo '67, and further increased its international stature by hosting the 1976 Summer Olympics, although the provincial debt incurred in undertaking the latter was not retired until 2006. Bibliography See E. A. Collard, Montreal Yesterdays (1962); J. I. Cooper, Montreal, A Brief History (1969); L. Roberts, Montreal: From Mission Colony to World City (1969); J.-C. Marsan, Montreal in Evolution (1981); P.-A. Linteau, Montreal (1992). Montreal (Montréal), a city in eastern Canada, in Quebec Province.

It is located on the St. Lawrence River’s confluence with the Ottawa River, 1,600 km from the Atlantic Ocean. Montreal is Canada’s most populous city; the population in 1971 was 2.7 million (including suburbs). Approximately two thirds of the population is French Canadian. The city government is administered by the mayor, who heads a 99-member council. Montreal is divided into 11 wards, each of which is represented in the council by six members: three members of Category A are elected only by persons who own property of certain size, and three members of Category B are elected by all the voters of the ward. Thirty-three councilors (Category C) are elected by such institutions as the Montreal Council of Trade, the Chamber of Commerce, McGill University, the University of Montreal, and the Central Council of Catholic Trade Unions. The council appoints an executive committee, consisting of two members from each category. The councilors serve two-year terms. The council is controlled by the legislative assembly of Quebec Province, and its authority is limited to questions concerning the municipal economy, the local budget, and similar matters.

Montreal was founded in 1642 as Ville-Marie de Montreal by French settlers. In the first half of the 18th century the city became an important trading center. In 1760, Montreal fell to the British, and from 1844 to 1849 it was the capital of the British colony (or province) of Canada. Montreal is one of the centers of the workers’ movement in Canada. Montreal owes much of its growth and the growth of its population (1800, about 10,000; 1901, 328,000) to its position on the St. Lawrence River, which is accessible to ocean-going vessels. It is also located in the center of a fertile valley and in a region with a wealth of mineral and hydroelectric resources. In addition, it is near major United States industrial centers. The largest port in Canada, Montreal had a freight turnover of more than 20 million tons in 1971 (the principal export being grain). The city is also a major railroad junction and Canada’s most important commercial, financial, and industrial center.

Greater Montreal is responsible, by value, for about one-fifth of the production of Canada’s processing industry, including approximately one-half of the light industry production (leather footwear, textiles, and garments). Other industries that have been developed in Montreal include general machine-building (one-third of Canada’s productive capacity), oil refining, metal-working, diesel and railroad car building (one-half of Canada’s productive capacity), aircraft construction, shipbuilding, and nonferrous metallurgy. The city also has chemical, furniture, and food industries. The important Dorval airport is located 12 km south of Montreal. Montreal’s educational institutions include McGill University, the University of Montreal, and Sir George Williams University. The city is the site of the Library of the City of Montreal and the Museum of Fine Arts. The city of Montreal is based on a rectangular plan, which was drawn up in 1672. Among the city’s noteworthy architectural monuments are the Church of Montreal de Bonsecours (1657; rebuilt in 1771), St.

Sulpice Seminary (1680), the Chateau de Ramezay (1705–24), eclectic 19th-century structures, the University of Montreal (1925–42, architect E. Cormier), the trade center (1960, architect B. Fuller), and the cultural center (Place des Arts; 1960’s, architects F. Lebensold and others). The satellite city of Granby was built in the 1960’s. Montreal underwent extensive urban improvement in preparation for its international exhibition in 1967 (Expo 67); for example, underground passage-ways were built and auto-free zones were created. REFERENCE Montreal Lands and Waterways - Parks, Rivers, Lakes, Nature Reserves Parc du la Riviere des Mille Iles - Regional Canoeing, Kayaking, Hiking, Cross Country Skiing The parks main access points are in Laval but it can be accessed from several areas on the Laurentian shore including the Centre de la Nature de Boisbriand. The park is made up of green space on both shores and on the dozens of islands along the channel.

While very much an urban area, the marshes, islands and narrow channels provide excellent areas to explore in a sea kayak. You'll also find picnic tables on some of the shoreslines and islands, where you can stop to eat if you've packed a lunch. The park has rabaska canoe tours or you can rent your own kayak or canoe. In August the park is the site of the Descent de la Riviere Mille Isle, which sees over a thousand participants paddling the river. In the winter the park is open to cross country skiers (6km of classic, plus 7km of multi-use trails) and snowshoers when the river freezes over. From Montreal take highway 15 (or the 13 to the 640 to the 15) and take the last exit in Laval. Head east on Ste. Rose and watch for the signs.

Entrance fee Le Parc de la Riviï¿½re des Mille-ï¿½les 345 Ste Rose Blvd West, Ste-Rose, Laval, QC Cap-St-Jacques - Nature Park One of Montreal's beautiful nature parks, the park is located at the northwestern tip of the island in Pierrefonds/Senneville. You'll find excellent cycling and hiking along wide hard pack trails, along with a nice paddling route along the parks shore, a popular beach, a sugar shack and the eco-farm... More Bois-de-Liesse - Nature Park The park is located on the Montreal's north shore in the West Island. It stretches from the back river almost to the Trans-Canada Highway, and from Sunnybrook in the west, on passed Highway 13 to Avenue du Rousseau, in the east. The park has 12km of hiking trails, along with 8km of bike paths... More Bois-de-l'lle-Bizard - Nature Park Ile Bizard is an island located at the western tip of Laval and to the northwest of Montreal, above the West Island.

The park is situated in the eastern half of the Ile Bizard, between Montee de l'Eglise and the Chemin du Bord-du-Lac. There are over 27km of cross country ski trails, 9.6km of which are accessible for hiking and biking in the summer... More I'lle-de-la-Visitation - Nature Park The park is a pleasant break from the urban landscape, located in Montreal's' east central region, along the Riviere des Prairie,You'll find a mix of forest and fields, which border the park's central bay. The bay provides excellent wildlife viewing, watch for black crowned herons, osprey and a variety of ducks, which can often be observed close-up. You can find canoeing, sea kayaking, biking, hiking, all within the parks boundaries. There are 9km of hiking trails and 2.5km of bike trails, which are made up of hard pack and crushed stone. In the winter there are 8km of cross country ski trails.You can reach the park from Montreal's cycling network, a section of which travels right passed the southern boundary. The park is located off Gouin Blvd east, between Papineau and Saint Micheal.

Take Henri Bourassa to Rue de Lille, then turn north to Gouin. At Gouin turn east and drive for a short distance to the parks gate. There are a number of buses which will get you to the park, consult our Resources section for the Montreal's Urban Transit Link. Maps are available at the park office. There is a fee for parking. 2425 Gouin Blvd East Point-aux-Prairies - Nature Park There are 20km of cross country ski trails along with a designated snowshoe trail of 3km. The are 3km of hiking trails and 13.km of bike trails accessible in the summer. The park is rather unique, in that it stretches from, the northern shore to the southern shore of the island, through corridors which connect the three main sectors. The two parking areas in the north that can be reached from Gouin just off Saint Jean Baptiste. You'll also find parking areas in the other areas, with the visitor information center located in the middle sector. To reach the park follow the Trans-Canada into Montreal's east end, then exit at Henri Bourassa and head west.

Take a right (north) at the second major intersection, St-Jean-Baptiste Blvd. At Gouin head east (right) which will take you two the parks northern entrance. There are a number of buses which will get you to the park, consult our Resources section for the Montreal's Urban Transit Link. Maps are available at the park office. There is a fee for parking. 12300 Gouin Blvd Mont-Royal (The Mountain) Hiking 30km, Snowshoeing, XC Skiing 20km groomed, Snowshoeing, Cycling This is Montreal's landmark and the cities outdoor center piece. An urban park, it's never the less a large and beautiful green space in the center of the city. The park forms the crown of Mont Royal, the cities central peak (if you will). It's heavily wooded, has lots of trails and excellent viewpoints. It's a great place for a stroll on a warm summers day or a quick cross country ski before leaving for work in the winter. Designed by the same architect that designed Central Park in New York, this is truly a people's park.

Anytime of year you'll find groups and individuals involved in an array of outdoor and leisure activities. You can cycle to the top of the mountain without worrying about traffic, by following the shaded, winding, Olmsted Road (hard pack), accessible from Avenue du Parc near the monument. If you prefer the street, Voie Camillien Houde travels over the mountain from Mount Royal in the east to Cote de Neige in the west. You can access the hiking/walking trail system from Beaver Lake, which lies along the parks main road or you can find access from the Olmsted Road, Cote des Neige or Pine Avenue. Cross country skiers and snowshoers have trails waiting and equipment rentals are available. There is a small snowboard and downhill ski slope at Beaver Lake, which is perfect for the little grommets. In the winter other popular activities are tubing, sledding and tobogganing. Unfortunately mountain biking is not permitted in the park. The park is of interest to birders as there are many common nesting species. A restaurant and snack bar can be found at Beaver Lake but in the Summer you just might want to pack a picnic.

You'll also find the exciting Tam-Tam drum celebrations, which take place beside the monument on Avenue du Parc, every Sunday in the warmer months. The parks north side is taken up by two large and imposing cemeteries. You'll find many prominent Montrealer's that have found there final resting place here. This includes Maurice Richard, one of the world's greatest hockey players. Lord Shaughnessy, which oversaw the running of the Canadian Pacific Railways while it grew into one or the world's major multi-nationals. You'll also find the the monument for Camillian Houde, a mayor of the city and an early environmentalist. The Notre-Dam-des-Neige and the Cimetiere Mont-Royal websites will provide you with more information. There are a number of buses which will get you to the park, consult our Resources section for the Montreal's Urban Transit Link. If you wish to drive, you'll find parking in the Beaver Lake area. There is a fee for parking. Parc Jean Drapeau The park is Located on the the islands of Ile Ste-Helene and Ile Notre-Dame, in the St. Lawrence River, south of the city.

Ile Ste-Helene has a long and interesting history, in contrast Ile Notre Dame is a man made island, constructed for the 1967 World's Fair. While it's largely an urban park, parts of the park are forested and quiet natural spaces can be found in the surrounding marshes and shorelines... More Agrignon Park Hiking 10km, Snowshoeing, Cross Country Skiing 10km, Cycling A large green space with a lake and some nicely forested areas. The park is located in the Lasalle, Pole des Rapids region, just west of the downtown core. In the winter you can also toboggan and skate on the parks outdoor rink. You can reach the park by bike along the Aqueduct bike path. To reach the park by car from the downtown area, follow Notre Dame Street west to Boul. Agrinon, then head south (left) to the park. The park is also directly accessible from the Agrinon Metro (subway) station on the Green Line. Consult our Resources section for the link to Montreal's Urban Transit Authority and detailed information on access.

3400 des Tinitaires Blvd Lafontaine Park This is a large urban park, which sees a lot of activity, particularly in the summer months. Arguably, this is the most beautiful of Montreal's truly urban parks and very much steeped in Montreal history and culture. There are venues for most of the traditional sports, such as baseball, tennis and hockey. There are also many walking and cycling paths through the park. In the summer you'll find open air theatre, which is free to the public.The park is in walking distance of the Sherbrooke Metro (subway) Station on the Orange Line. Or you can pick up a bus, here or at the Papineau or Prefontiane Metro stations. Consult our Resources section for the link to Montreal's Urban Transit Authority and detailed information on access to the park. To reach the park by car head east from the downtown core along Sherbrooke St., the park is a few blocks after St. Hubert St. 3819 Calixa-Lavallee - Walking 10km Maisonneuve Park Hiking 5km, Snowshoeing, XC Skiing 18km, Cycling A large and very urban green space, next door to the Olympic Stadium.

The park has facilities for the more traditional sports, as well as a section of the Montreal cycling network running through it. In a addition to it's neighbor, the Olympic Stadium, you'll also find the Olympic Village, the Biodome and the Botanical Gardens on its doorstep. The nearest Metro (subway) stations are Viau and Rosemont. Consult our Resources section for the link to Montreal's Urban Transit Authority and detailed information on access to the park. To reach the park by car from the downtown core, travel east along Sherbrooke Street, the park is located just passed Pie IX Boulevard. 4601 Sherbrooke St E Des Rapides Park White Water Kayaking, Hiking, Cycling A small but fascinating natural area along the south shore of Lasalle. The park is an important birding area and lies just across from the Ile aux Herons Migratory Bird Sanctuary. The bird sanctuary is best know for it's heronries, with nesting Great Blue and Black Crowned Night Herons. In addition, depending on the time of year, you might see the American Wigeons and Goldeneyes. Redwing Blackbirds, Mergansers and Mallards are the most abundant species on the islands.

The park lies along the Berges bike path, which travels the length of Lasalle's south shore and connects into the larger Montreal network. The famous Lachine Rapids run alongside the parks southern boundary, providing White water kayakers (intermediate - expert) with an excellent area for paddling. Rafting Montreal is located just to the west of the park and also takes advantage of the rapids. These rapids have a large historical significance and are one of the key reasons the Lachine Canal was constructed. From downtown Montreal take the Ville Marie Expressway, to the 20 west, then take the exit for the Mercier Bridge (Route 138) Take the first exit into LaSalle and cross back east of the highway to LaFleur, where you head west (right), to the T intersection with Boul. LaSalle. Head south (left) for for a few kilometres, the park is on your right a short distance passed Boul. Bishop Power. Lachine Canal Cycling, Hiking/Walking, Sea Kayaking While not a designate park at all, the long green strip of land that follows the canal and bike path is one of the most popular outdoor destinations in the city.

Effectively a linear park, it stretches from the downtown core in the east, to Lake Saint Louis in the west, connecting at either end to other bike paths in the 300km Montreal cycling network. You can rent bikes at both ends (or in the Old Port which is only a short distance from the Canal). After a long period of neglect, the canal has been refurbished and the locks restored, to once again allow small small boat traffic to travel end to end. You can rent kayaks (or bring your own) for a pleasant paddle along the canals waters (but don't do any eskimo rolls). Bring a picnic or pick one up at the Atwater Market, which lies just off the bike path. You might also consider dropping by the outdoor terrace at Magnans, a Montreal landmark, famous for it's huge succulent ribs, roast beef and steaks. You'll find parking at each end of the canal as well as several other points along route, including spots adjacent to Pont LaFleur and Pont du Cote-St-Paul. The Lachine Canal along with the nearby Fur Trade at Lachine site are part of Canada's system of National Historic Sites.

Consult our Resources section for the link to Montreal's Urban Transit Authority and detailed information on access to the park. Other Parks Bois Durvernay - 30km of cross country ski trails, birding, 2830 Saint Elzear Blvd East (Vimont) Laval 450-661-1766 Bois Papineau - 7km of cross country trails, snowshoeing, birding, 3235 Saint Martin Blvd East (Duvernay) Laval Parc des Prairies - 5km of cross country trails, Blvd des Prairies (Laval des Rapides), Laval 450-662-4902 The park has a number of hiking trails, which are used in the winter for cross country skiing. There are huts you can rent for overnight stays. There are also two sugar shacks to visit in the spring... More Laurentians The park is in a lovely natural area with an extensive but easy trail system. The ease of access and the wide variety of activities available make it a popular local destination... More Laurentians Doncaster - Regional A beautiful nature park a short distance from Ste. Adele.

The park follows the Doncaster River as it makes its way to the Riviere du Nord. The parks trials connect to the P'tit Train du Nord, presenting you with 200km more to explore... More Laurentians Frontenac - Provincial Lac Saint-François is the parks centre piece and much of the parks activities take place on it's waters or along its shores. The park has front country camping as well as 30 canoe campsites, hiking, cycling and a beach. In the winter both sectors are open for backcountry skiing and snowshoeing... More Eastern Townships Ile de Boucherville Park (Provincial) - Located on islands in the St. Lawrence river just south of Montreal's east end. The park has hiking paths, cycling paths ( 20k in total ) which double as cross country skiing and snowshoeing trails in the winter. You can also use part of the trail system for winter hiking. In the summer you'll find a very nice paddling circuit for sea kayaks or canoes... More Monteregie Mont Megantic - Provincial Located in the Eastern Townships about 2.5 hours from Montreal, the park encompasses several 1000m peaks.

Backpacking, hiking, mountain biking, wilderness camping, backcounty and cross country skiing make up the parks' activities list. Mont Megantic is crowed by the Astrolab observatory which should give you some idea of the excellent opportunity for star gazing in the park... Mont Megantic Eastern Townships Mont Orford Park - Provincial The park is a popular destination for Montrealers in both the summer and winter. The park offers hiking trails, an extended backpacking trail, cycling, lake paddling, cross country skiing front country camping and wilderness camping. You'll find one of the townships best downhill centers in the park as well... More Eastern Townships Mont St-Bruno Park (Provincial) The park is located about 20km south of Montreal on the south shore. Several small lakes perched on the mountain are surrounded by forest and fields. Hiking trails swing around the lakes and provide several nice lookouts along the way. During the winter, 30km of trails are groomed for cross country skiing... More Monteregie Mont-Tremblant Park - Provincial Located in a beautiful setting in the Central Laurentians/Lanaudiere regions, this is Quebec's most popular park.

You'll find a wealth of outdoor activities including cycling, mountain biking, hiking, backpacking, white water paddling, front country camping, wilderness camping, cross country and backcountry skiing... More Laurentians Lanaudiere Oka Park - Provincial Located on the shores of the Lake of Two Mountains in the Lower Laurentians, the park has hiking, mountain biking, front country camping, cross country skiing, snow shoeing and excellent birding. The park is a home to perhaps the best beach in the Montreal area. A bike path passes through the park and connects into the extensive Montreal cycling network... More Laurentians Riviere-du-Nord - Regional A beautiful regional park just off highway 15 outside of Saint-Jerome. The park lies along the P'tit Train du Nord (the Laurentian's rail trail) on the shores of the Riviere-du-Nord. The Chutes Wilson are a great spectacle, particularly in the spring when the waters can be ferocious.. More Laurentians The Fishing Paradise Called Quebec - In-Fisherman The Fishing Paradise Called Quebec Share on Google+ Over 1,100 miles separate Montreal on the Saint Lawrence Seaway from Ivujivik on the Hudson Straight.

At least 900 miles along that straight line stretch north of the last highway, into an angling wilderness of mind-blowing proportions. Quebec isn’t a place. It’s a region. Stand anywhere in the province and it’s difficult to fling a Dardevle without hitting water, and chances are good it will splash down on an awesome fishery. GALLERY: Quebec 1 of 11 <h2>Montreal</h2>Start here, in Montreal, an island surrounded by the St Lawrence River. North America's most cosmopolitan city, home of the world's largest jazz festival, fireworks competitions, and much, much more. Spend an extra day exploring the oldest city on the continent and the awesome mounts on display at Muskies Canada, Montreal, before launching off in any direction for world-class angling opportunities. <h2>Montreal</h2>Start here, in Montreal, an island surrounded by the St Lawrence River. North America's most cosmopolitan city, home of the world's largest jazz festival, fireworks competitions, and much, much more.

Spend an extra day exploring the oldest city on the continent and the awesome mounts on display at Muskies Canada, Montreal, before launching off in any direction for world-class angling opportunities. <h2>Atlantic Salmon</h2>The Moisie River is regarded as one of the world's finest venues for Atlantic Salmon. It runs into the St. Lawrence from the north. Across the Seaway lies the inimitable Gaspe Peninsula, which is laced with fine salmon rivers. These include the pristine York River, where crystal flows give away her giant salmon even in the deeper pools. The Gaspe is a wonderland of pristine riffles surrounded by emerald forests and gorgeous low-mountain scenery. The best time to visit with a fly rod tends to be mid June into early July, when salmon return fresh from the sea. <h2>Walleye</h2>West-to-East across the southern tier of Quebec, great walleye fisheries are scattered like gems. Start with the Seaway, where giants of 10 pounds or better are common. To the West, Lake Ogascanan is an absolute walleye factory.

A little East, Lake Cabonga in the Reserve LaVerendrye is a "walleye paradise" according to Siegfreid Gagnon of the Ministry of Tourism. Lake Gouin, Lac St. Jean, and thousands of other waters entertain exceptional walleye fishing in Quebec. Almost 150 outfitters are situated on prime walleye waters in the province. <h2>Smallmouth Bass</h2>Lake Memphremagog stretches south from Quebec into New York and Vermont. It made several In-Fisherman "Ten Best" lists for smallmouth fishing worldwide. The St. Lawrence River is a smallmouth wonderland. "Every stream, lake, and river from Montreal to Sept Iles offers great smallmouth fishing," says Siegfreid Gagnon. "This is where I grew up. Some of these fisheries are now catch-and-release, where 5-pound trophies have become common." Forty one outfitters have operations on smallmouth waters in Quebec, while hundreds if not thousands of other drive-to, do-it-yourself fisheries exist. <h2>Northern Pike</h2>Awesome fishing for big toothies extends from the the southern border of Quebec well into the northern tier of the province.

Over 165 outfitters have sites and access on thousands of waters known for producing big pike. Some of the biggest are taken from Lake Manicouagan and Lake Gouin in the central region of the province each year, but dozens of lakes and reservoirs commonly produce fish of 20 pounds or better. Pike populations are exploding right now in the St. Lawrence River as well, with many of those fish in the upper teens. <h2>Landlocked Salmon</h2>Also called ouananiche, landlocked salmon grow no bigger, anywhere on earth, than on the Canispiscau River in northern Quebec. A 12 pounder is just a nice one up there. Few fish jump higher or more often than an ouananiche. Thirty four outfitters in Quebec have camps or lodges on waters sporting landlocked salmon, many of them quite close to Montreal. Classic salmon flies work well, but streamers that incorporate a little marabou or fox hair tend to excel. <h2>Moose</h2>Northern Quebec is bounded by the St. Lawrence Seaway, James Bay, Hudson Bay, the Hudson Straight, and Ungava Bay, where whale sightings are a daily occurrence.

Up here, herds of caribou and solitary moose often punctuate the beauty of time spent on the water. <h2>Brook Trout</h2>It doesn't get any better for "speckled trout." Brook trout run from the salt of James Bay, Hudson Bay, and Ungava Bay into rivers like the Broadback, the Canipiscau, the George, the Whale, and hundreds of streams rarely explored throughout the trout-filled wilderness of the northern tier. Nick Caras, author of Brook Trout, has brought many brookies over 10 pounds to net in rivers like the Broadback and inland waters like the famous Mistassini, which is surrounded, mid province, by trout-filled streams and rivers. A whopping 215 outfitters, located throughout Quebec, are prepared to guide you to the brook-trout trip of a lifetime. <h2>Lake Trout</h2>The record laker taken on a fly from one camp on the Riviere Baleine (or Whale River) stands at 44 pounds. It was taken with a weighted fly on a floating line in about 8 feet of water.

Giant lake trout can be found in the rivers of Northern Quebec all summer long, producing unparalleled fly fishing for gargantuans. The connected lakes are a paradise for big greys as well. In the cold, clear waters from Lake Manicouagan north to the Hudson Straight, lake trout in excess of 20 pounds can be found both shallow from spring through fall. In the southern tier of Quebec, expect to troll deep with spoons in summer. Over 100 outfitters can put you on lakers in the province—many of them a few hours from Montreal. <h2>Arctic Char</h2>Oddly enough, Arctic char can be found throughout Quebec, providing some of the southernmost fisheries anywhere for these extreme cold-water fish. Arctic char in spawning colors are exotic, the colorations rivaling those of fish from tropical coral reefs. Few if any species have higher Omega 3 levels. In southern Quebec, most populations are landlocked. Some of the largest specimens on earth are the anadromous versions that run from the sea to the rivers of northern Quebec. Twenty seven outfitters are prepared to take you up there, where polar bears and musk ox roam the tundra.

<h2>Scenery</h2>Quebec Is known for unique landscapes and gorgeous vistas. Sea shores, mountains, hills, valleys, vast reservoirs, tundra wildlife, and wild rivers describe the diverse scenery of this vast province. (Photos from Caniapiscau River and Whale River). Montreal was founded in 1642 and is easily the continent’s oldest destination for trophy muskies on the St. Lawrence River. This most picturesque, historic, and romantic city in North America is the launching point for angling adventures unique in all the world. Flowing northeast from Montreal, the famous Seaway is bordered on both sides by Quebec, flowing along the inimitable Gaspe Peninsula. The rivers that flow from it and the North Shore of the Seaway are among the finest Atlantic salmon venues anywhere on earth. The St. Lawrence Seaway is home to monster walleyes, trophy smallmouth bass, panfish, carp, sturgeon, and awesome pike fishing. It harbors impressive runs of king salmon and steelhead. But Quebec is far, far more. The southern tier of the province is rife with sprawling parks, reservoirs, and natural lakes known for exceptional angling.

Bass, walleye, pike, and trout fisheries abound. The brawling rivers of Quebec’s northern tier are home to some of the finest sea-run brook trout fishing in the world. Inland, many of the same rivers provide world-class opportunities for landlocked salmon and trout. Massive lake trout haunt these rivers as well. It’s a fly-fisherman’s dream, yet very few areas are listed as flies only. The topography here is unique from all of Canada and, for that matter, the world. Many rivers in northern Quebec broaden into natural lakes brimming with pike, lake trout, and walleyes, then narrow between gorgeous low mountains into class-five torrents (popular with kayakers) that harbor magnificent landlocked salmon and brookies. A five pounder doesn’t raise many eyebrows here. Farther north, Arctic char fishing is unparalleled. Bring flies, hardware, or both. According to the Ministry of Tourism, the Quebec Outfitters Federation (1-800-567-9009) has almost 400 members.

The diversity of plans is impressive, including 5-star accommodations, American plans, semi American plans, canoe camping, wilderness drop-offs at outpost cabins, and wilderness camping. Parcs Quebec reserves only 20% of its wilderness camp sites for residents each year, meaning 80% are granted to non-residents. Quebec loves anglers and loves to facilitate them. Quebec truly is another world, of beauty and opportunities unique onto itself. The productivity and vast diversity of habitats alone should place it high on every angler’s bucket list. Montreal Bodies of Water: 4 Bodies of Water Montreal, Quebec This man-made body of water was created especially for the 1976 summer Olympics. Measuring 2.2 km (1.4 mi) in length, the basin hosts a number of events and competitions each year including rowing, canoeing, kayaking and dragon boat races.

Address: Notre Dame Island - Parc Jean-Drapeau | Montreal, QC | H3C 1A9 Contribute: Add an Event | View Stats | Edit Info Lac des Deux Montagnes (Lake of Two Mountains) The Lake of Two Mountains is named for the two highest peaks of Mont Oka: Calvaire Mountain and Saint-Joseph-du-Lac Hill. Part of the delta widening of the Ottawa River, the lake feeds into the Saint Lawrence River. Address: | Montreal, QC Contribute: Add an Event | View Stats | Edit Info St. Lawrence River One of the world's greatest rivers, the Saint Lawrence gushes freshwater from the Great Lakes for 1247 kilometres (775 miles) to the Atlantic. It has been used for centuries for shipping into mainland North America. However, its usefulness fails to outshine its beauty. Near Kingston, the river is peppered with many islands, aptly called the Thousand Islands. Affection for this region stretches back for thousands of years to Native Canadians who named it 'The Garden of the Great Spirit'.

Address: | , QC Contribute: Add an Event | View Stats | Edit Info Riviï¿½re des Prairies Sometimes referred to as the Back River by English-speakers, the Riviï¿½re des Prairies divides the Island of Montreal from ï¿½le Jï¿½sus, which is Laval's home island. The river's waters run west to east, and are dotted with numerous more islands of the Hochelaga Archipelago. Photography of Montreal surrounded by ice on the St Lawrence River - photoJPL.com .:: Crï¿½ez avec vos vidï¿½os et photos Search Please! Leave your comment Montreal surrounded by ice on the St Lawrence River The city of Montreal is surrounded by ice on the St. Lawrence River, seen from the park Cité du Havre. 360 degree panoramic photograph and interactive virtual tour. © 2002 - 2017 - All rights reserved PhotoJPL | Web Hosting by iScream.net flexible solutions which also boasts its website solution without programming travel to Quebec in April - Rick Steves Travel Forum Please sign in to post.

travel to Quebec in April Posted by Margaret (Georgetown, OH, USA) on 01/18/14 06:19 PM Hello everyone: We have booked flights to Quebec City in April. Any clues on what to see/avoid and how disabled we will be by speaking very little French? It's a place we really want to visit. Thanks! 01/19/14 04:00 AM 2082 posts Most everyone in Quebec City speaks English well. Only when you get out of the cities in Quebec will you find some people who don't speak English. You won't have a problem. Quebec City is spectacular! The cleanest city I've ever been in! Walkable size, great food, and spectacular views and architecture. We spent three days there and were able to see pretty much everything I think! WE walked up to the old fort overlooking the St. Lawrence River and went through the upper town and the lower town. The one thing I wish we would have done is sail or take a boat on the river. Maybe another time!

01/19/14 02:44 PM 2159 posts You may get some French folks who may be 'rude' about the whole not speaking English thing...they are surrounded by English speakers, they should know the basics. Same as when you go to France, learn the basics...hello, good bye, please, thank you, excuse me, where is the bathroom...lol. We have visited Montreal but not Quebec City. As a Canadian, I had a little French in junior high years ago, and am faced with French everyday on packaging (so food stuffs are pretty easy for me). No issue at all in Montreal with French, other the with a bus driver who I think was 'playing' stupid. Just be polite, if they refuse to speak English (or really don't - older folks may not, younger people most def should) just move on - the next person most likely will help. Don't let it ruin your trip - most Quebecers understand the money tourists contribute to the economy.

Posted by Margaret OP 01/30/14 11:12 AM 1400 posts As far as the comments about non-English speakers in Quebec City being "rude" because "they should know the basics"... a better informed person would know that French speakers in Quebec City are NOT surrounded by English speakers. The language in which the (very large) majority of people living in Quebec City are brought up in and educated is French. The English taught in schools is, well, pretty much as bad as the French taught elsewhere - and usually by non-native speakers. This situation is peculiar to Quebec City and some regions... Montreal, the province of Quebec's largest city, is - quite literally - a world apart on this issue. You will encounter people who will not be able to speak English with you. They are not necessarily rude, but just an ordinary person. Many will try, but some will be wary. Although many tourists visit Quebec City, it is not tourism that sustains its economy... just like Chicago, for example. My parents were both from Quebec City and they learned English when they moved elsewhere. Most of my aunts & uncles, cousins, and their children, do not speak English at all.

Some can get by with a few phrases and are are not too shy to try, but they are in the minority. So, enjoy your time in Quebec City. The people who directly work with tourists will be able to speak English with varying degrees of fluency (mostly very well). I would be very surprised if you do encounter genuine rudeness. 01/31/14 01:10 AM 81 posts I 100% agree with Diane. Having been there before, I would not go expecting everyone to speak English, even basics-it would be like someone from there coming to my province and expecting all Albertans to be able to speak basic French. Yes, if you stay in the old town there will be more English, but its not a guarantee. That being said, every time I tried to speak French, and my students who are immersion did too the people we were speaking to switched to English. This for the kids was a major disappointment, just because they wanted to use their French (but they have strong anglophone accents). They kept speaking French and the people they interacted with eventually switched back, and it was all good. When we were there in April it was cool, but not cold.

I think one morning there was frost, but not snow. Its not like the prairies in Canada where we get snow in May. If you dress in layers you will be fine. You will love it! The city is stunning. Best thing we visited was The Plains of Abraham and citadel, just due to its historical significance. Wander the streets and enjoy the atmosphere-maybe do a walking tour or take the ferry across to Levis (Leh-vee), if its running. Also eat at St. Hubert (if you eat chicken). Its a staple. See if you can make it out to a Cabane a Sucre (where maple syrup is made-pronounced ka-ban-ah-sue-k) because that's neat too, but these are outside the city, and could be harder to get to if you don't have a car. Don't do the funicular. Its the biggest rip off in Quebec. The stairs are literally right beside it and it takes about 5 minutes to get to the top or bottom. Its worth the little extra effort to save the money. 02/05/14 06:55 PM 252 posts Oh do not worry about the language.

Most people at shops/hotels and main attractions should be able to help in English...but do learn basics at it has been said on here before. People in Quebec City are not ''surrounded'' by English as much as Montreal. You may have to get use to the thick French canadian accents of some people...that's about it. ;) Do bring layers. It tends to start to warm up in April....but we have a saying ''En avril...ne te découvre pas d'un fil'' Which pretty means to not take off too many layers (clothing) in April....it can get cold too and snow! It is not fancy cuisine....but you may be able to go to a ''Cabane à sucre'' or sugar shack. It should be around that time of year :) I am from a small town near Montréal...and I really hope you will like my province! Have a wonderful time! Bon voyage!!! 2 posts Hi, Quebec City? It is beautiful and fantastic. Visit the Plains of Abraham- not much to see but you will be standing where the English finally defeated the French for control of North America and set the future for both Canada and the US. Try poutine, of course.

But also try Tourtiere (meat pie), tarte au sucre (Sugar Pie) and local cheese! If you can, take a trip to a Sugar Shack - it will be maple syrup season and it is the ultimate high on sweets. Try Sortilege - a maple whisky liquere - delicious. Beer? Ephemere!!! Another excellent side trip not far from the city is Montmorency falls. It is twice the height if Niagara - spectacular. Ride the funicular to the lower old city and stroll around. French? If you can begin in French, they will automatically know you are English and switch over. Try this: Bonjour, je suis desole, mais je ne parle pas bon Francais - parlez - vous Anglais? (it sounds like: bone- zure, zhuh swee day-suh-lay, may zhuh -nuh- parl pa bone Fron-say. Par-lay voo Ong-lay?) It translates to: Good day, I am sorry but I don't speak good French- do you speak English?

It will open a lot of doors, as will s'il vous plait (see-voo-play) which means please, and merci (mare-see) which means thank-you. Practice these a bit before you go with your travel partner. Enjoy your trip! Montreal fishing - sport fishing in Montreal, Quebec Montreal fishing Montreal is the largest city in the province of Quebec. Montreal is built on an island, surrounded by the St Lawrence River (Lac St Louis) to the South, Riviere des Prairies to the North, and the Ottawa River (Lac des Deux Montagnes) to the West. These waterways ways are filled with the largest diversity of fish species in the province of Quebec. Montreal fishing regulations are governed by the province of Quebec, Montreal is located in Zone 8 as far as fishing is concerned. Species to fish around Montreal Majestic muskies, trophy walleyes, voracious Northern pike, and lunker bass are the main predatory sport fish most often targeted by anglers fishing in Montreal. The waters also have massive sturgeons, big channel catfish and a huge population of monster sized carp.

These fish species are increasingly being targeted fishermen still fishing from Montreal's shorelines, as opposed to the predatory species which are mainly targeted by anglers fishing from boats. During the annual shad run every spring, thousands of Montreal anglers fish the North shore for spawning shad, that come into our waters by the millions. Abundant quantities of yellow perch, sunfish, bullheads and rock bass make fishing in Montreal waterways a great place to initiate children into sport fishing. Panfish are easy to catch anywhere around Montreal, and will typically hit just about any bait that they can fit in their mouths. Increasing numbers of fishing tournaments are being held in Montreal, from smaller local tournaments and fishing derby's, to the biggest one of all, the B1 bass tournament sponsored by Berkley. Hiring an experienced Montreal fishing guide to show you the ropes is a great way to get started, as well as a worthwhile investment.The fishing guides will put you on to some great fishing around Montreal, and show you where and how it's done. "Freshwater Phil", one of Montreal's avid anglers, has put together a nifty website and blog, where he often review his outings and results.

He's recently put out an e-guide detailing Montreal popular fishing spots, it actually includes Google maps, access info, bait and tackle shops, and his expert tips on fishing each spot. Phil's e-guide is designed for those that don't own or have access to boats, all the spots are accessible from the shore. We encourage anyone looking to catch fish around Montreal to get the guide, more info is available by clicking here Troubled Times: Montreal, Canada Montreal, Canada Because the tearing of the St. Lawrence seaway will begin as soon as the stretching of the Atlantic occurs, land along this seaway will not submerge nor will any noticeable influx of ocean water occur, as the influx will be filling the new river bed area, now to become more of a lake. The tear will occur principally where the St. Lawrence seaway now runs, as this is a low point only because of the existing tear. Weak spots are deep within the rock strata under the river bed, and the tearing is less of a deep rift than a pulling apart in many places, so the surface seems relatively smooth. Beneath this tear are many feathery fingers of rock, reaching toward each other, soon filled with hardened magma to solidify.

Thus, even though Montreal is surrounded by water, it will simply find itself more of an island than another Atlantis. ZetaTalk 

Question: Montreal is surrounded by which river?
Answer: the St. Lawrence